Caravan Sun Canopies: A Buyer's Guide

On a warm day, a sun canopy is one of the nicest additions to any caravan - instant shade over the door, somewhere cool to sit, and shelter from a passing shower, all without the effort of putting up a full awning. Here is how to choose the right one.


As a family-run Thule specialist, we help caravanners pick the perfect canopy every day.

What is a sun canopy?

A sun canopy is a roll-out (retractable) awning used open, without full sides - so it gives you shade and light shelter while keeping an airy, open feel. It winds out in seconds from a slim cassette on the side of your caravan and rolls neatly away when you travel. If you later want more shelter or privacy, you can add side and front panels to close it in.


Think of it as the easiest way to get shade over your caravan doorway, ready whenever the sun comes out.

Canopy or full awning?

It helps to know the difference:


  • A sun canopy is quick, open and effortless - roll it out for shade, roll it back to travel. Perfect for touring and sunny days.

  • A full awning is a separate fabric structure that pegs out to fully enclose the space - more room, but a lot more work to put up.


Many caravanners find a roll-out sun canopy covers the vast majority of their needs, especially for touring, and add panels only when they want extra shelter.

Choosing your Thule canopy

Thule Omnistor roll-out awnings make excellent caravan sun canopies. The main options:


  • Thule Omnistor 1200 - a light, rail-mounted canopy that slides into your caravan's existing awning rail. The simplest option, with no brackets needed.

  • Wall or roof-mounted Thule awnings (such as the 4200, 5200 or roof-mounted 6300) - a sturdier, more permanent fit using the correct adapter for your van.


Sizes run from around 1.95m up to 6m, with projections up to 2.5m, so there is a canopy to suit every caravan.

Add shade and privacy

To get even more from your canopy, add Thule Rain, Sun & View Blockers - side and front panels that clip on in seconds to block low sun, add privacy, or shelter from the breeze, without committing to a full awning.

Getting the size and fit right

The right length depends on the clear run along the side of your caravan, and the mounting depends on whether you use your awning rail or fit an adapter. If you are unsure, measure the flat length along the side and contact us - we will confirm the right canopy and, if needed, the correct caravan adapter.

Why buy from Perfect Awnings

We are a family-run business specialising in genuine, award-winning Thule awnings, with real expert support, our Price Match Promise, free UK delivery over £250, and the comprehensive Thule two-year warranty on every awning. Prefer to have it fitted? We can point you to our installation and repair service and its nationwide network of approved installers.

Caravan sun canopy FAQs


What is the difference between a sun canopy and an awning? 

A sun canopy is a roll-out awning used open for shade and light shelter. An awning usually means a fully enclosed fabric structure. The same Thule roll-out awning can be used as an open canopy and then closed in with panels when you want more shelter.


Will a canopy fit my caravan's awning rail? 

The rail-mounted Thule 1200 slides straight into your caravan's existing awning rail. For a wall or roof-mounted canopy, we will supply the correct adapter.


Can I add sides later? 

Yes. Thule Rain, Sun & View Blockers and awning tents let you add shade, privacy or a fully enclosed room whenever you like.

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Ready for shade at the flick of a wrist?

Browse the caravan and motorhome awning range, or call us on 02380 706542 or email sales@perfectawnings.co.uk - we will help you find the perfect canopy at the perfect price.